EP1094294B1 - Linear or angular displacement measuring device - Google Patents

Linear or angular displacement measuring device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1094294B1
EP1094294B1 EP99810966A EP99810966A EP1094294B1 EP 1094294 B1 EP1094294 B1 EP 1094294B1 EP 99810966 A EP99810966 A EP 99810966A EP 99810966 A EP99810966 A EP 99810966A EP 1094294 B1 EP1094294 B1 EP 1094294B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
casing
housing
dial indicator
indicator according
socket
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP99810966A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1094294A1 (en
Inventor
Lucien M. Borgognon
Marco M. Cardillo
Roland M. Duteil
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Tesa SARL
Original Assignee
Brown and Sharpe Tesa SA
Tesa Brown and Sharpe SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Brown and Sharpe Tesa SA, Tesa Brown and Sharpe SA filed Critical Brown and Sharpe Tesa SA
Priority to EP99810966A priority Critical patent/EP1094294B1/en
Priority to DE69904332T priority patent/DE69904332T2/en
Priority to CNB001268244A priority patent/CN1175243C/en
Priority to JP2000220793A priority patent/JP3524474B2/en
Priority to US09/659,804 priority patent/US6513262B1/en
Publication of EP1094294A1 publication Critical patent/EP1094294A1/en
Priority to HK02100360.0A priority patent/HK1038789B/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1094294B1 publication Critical patent/EP1094294B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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    • GPHYSICS
    • G01MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01BMEASURING LENGTH, THICKNESS OR SIMILAR LINEAR DIMENSIONS; MEASURING ANGLES; MEASURING AREAS; MEASURING IRREGULARITIES OF SURFACES OR CONTOURS
    • G01B3/00Measuring instruments characterised by the use of mechanical techniques
    • G01B3/22Feeler-pin gauges, e.g. dial gauges

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a measuring device, in particular a comparator for measuring and comparing lengths or angles.
  • FIG. 1 An example of a comparator is shown in Figures 1 and 2.
  • This comparator 1 comprises a frame 2, here of cylindrical shape, and a probing button 3 whose tip 30 is intended to come into contact with the object to be measured or checked.
  • the comparator is generally fitted with one or more sockets 8, 9 of standardized dimensions allowing to fix it to a machine or an external device.
  • Comparators to electronic displays like the one shown are also equipped with a battery compartment 6, manipulation buttons 5, as well that possibly of a serial interface 7, for example an interface optoelectronics.
  • bearings 80, 90 are provided to allow sliding and precise guiding of key 3.
  • the bearing 90 is machined directly in the upper sleeve 9 while the lower bearing 80 is attached in the lower bush 8.
  • the comparator shown is provided with a metal case, the external faces of which have undergone a surface treatment for aesthetic reasons in particular. Sealing is only partially ensured thanks to a solid frame 2 and to a bottom 26 screwed or fixed to the notch on this frame and protecting the internal mechanism of the comparator from liquid projections.
  • the device illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 must therefore be kept clean to operate and is therefore ill-suited to operation in a humid environment or subject to splashes of dust, lubricant or cutting oil for example. In particular, it is important ensure that the measuring system inside the comparator is free of any humidity.
  • CH352497 describes an example of a comparator of this type, including bearings directly attached to the frame.
  • US5189796 describes another example of a comparator in which the bearings are directly machined in the frame.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide a comparator improved compared to the comparators of the prior art.
  • a goal of the present invention is also to propose a more economical comparator, more precise, more waterproof, more durable and / or with fewer parts than the comparator illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.
  • these aims are achieved in particular by bringing the key landing stages closer to each other.
  • the invention therefore suggests using a spacing I between the bearings smaller than the diameter of the case. This characteristic makes it possible to reduce the bending of the touch rod and therefore increase accuracy.
  • these aims are also achieved by using bearings machined directly in the frame of the comparator.
  • This characteristic makes it possible to reduce the number of parts, and therefore the cost, and decrease the sum of the manufacturing tolerances and assembly of different parts, which also improves the precision.
  • This characteristic also makes it possible to reduce the distance I between the landings.
  • these aims are also achieved by using a housing covering the external faces of the metal frame of the comparator.
  • the case allows to resolve sealing problems.
  • the housing increases the external diameter of the comparator, and therefore to use an additional display 4 large and easier to read, without having to increase the distance I between bearings which is determined by the diameter of the metal frame.
  • the housing is preferably made of synthetic material and can be maintained by comparator sockets, allowing easy mounting. By disposing it so as to completely cover the metal frame, it is further possible to save the expensive surface treatment of the frame, which reduces costs without having to give up an attractive design.
  • Figure 3 illustrates a sectional view of a comparator according to the invention.
  • certain elements of the comparator such as the key (shown in Figure 4) or the measurement system not been represented.
  • the invention in fact applies to any type of system for comparator, for example to purely systems mechanical with needle display, or electronic systems, by capacitive, inductive, optoelectronic or magnetoresistive examples, allowing to display the results for example on a crystal display liquids 4 or to export them via a serial interface, for example a RS232 optoelectronic interface (7).
  • Comparator 1 makes it possible to determine the position of the end 30 of the probe tip 3 and compare this position with stored reference positions. It includes a metal frame 2 of generally cylindrical shape provided in this example with a bearing upper 23 and a lower bearing 24 for sliding longitudinally the key 3.
  • the bearings are directly machined in the frame 2, in order to reduce the number of parts and the sum of the tolerances of manufacturing and assembly, and therefore increase accuracy while reducing cost and size.
  • This provision also allows reduce the distance 1 between the bearings 23 and 24, in particular to make it well smaller than the external diameter of the comparator housing, and so decrease the bending of key 3 in the measurement zone between the bearings, which improves accuracy.
  • bearings 23 can be used, 24, in particular stony bearings and / or fitted with an oil tanker ensuring optimal sliding.
  • the invention also applies to comparators in which the key only crosses the frame at a single point, and therefore fitted with a single bearing.
  • the invention also relates to the variants of less advantageous comparator which are provided with two bearings, but only one of which is machined directly in the frame 2.
  • a lower sleeve 8 is integrally connected to the frame 2, by for example by screwing, gluing or chasing.
  • This socket is optional and could be absent depending on the variant carried out.
  • the upper sleeve 9 could also be made of material synthetic, for example integrated into the housing 10 or the cover 11 described lower.
  • the lower sleeve 8 is provided with a through opening 82 for the passage of the key 3, the diameter of the opening 82 being slightly greater than the internal diameter of the lower bearing 24.
  • the socket lower 8 thus does not participate in guiding the button 3, so that its machining and fixing constraints to the frame 2 are less critical.
  • the socket 8 allows the comparator to be attached to external devices, by example to machines or along an assembly line.
  • an upper sleeve 9 is integrally connected to the frame 2, for example by screwing, gluing or chassage.
  • This socket is optional and may be missing depending on the variant performed.
  • the upper sleeve 9 could also be made of synthetic material, for example integrated to the housing 10 or to the cover 11 described below.
  • the upper sleeve 9 is provided with a through opening 92 with a diameter slightly greater than the diameter internal of the bearing 23, and thus not participating in guiding the button.
  • the key 3 is shown in perspective in Figure 4. It essentially comprises a cylindrical body whose diameter is machined precisely, in order to avoid any lateral play in the bearings 23 and 24.
  • the end of the key is provided with a touch point 30, the shape and hardness can be adapted to the use, the tip 30 which can in a preferential variant be unscrewed by grasping it by a portion 31 to replace it with a more appropriate tip.
  • a movable portion 33 of a circuit position determination electronics is securely attached to the key 3, so as to collaborate with a fixed part not shown and linked to frame 2 of the measurement circuit.
  • the relative position of the moving part 33 and the fixed part can be determined and compared with a value of stored reference, and the result displayed on display means digital 4.
  • the measurement system can be capacitive, inductive, magnetoresistive or optoelectronic for example, the invention not being limited to these examples and can also be applied to fully mechanical comparators.
  • the fixed part will for example consist of a flat sensor mounted at a short distance opposite the sliding rule 33 provided with respectively magnetic capacitive electrodes.
  • the measurement system will include example a light emitter sending through one or more lenses a light beam through the graduated rule 33 as well as a sensor optical system reacting to light transmitted or reflected by the rule.
  • the button 3 is provided with a guide portion 32 collaborating with a guide slot 20 machined or attached in the internal wall of the frame, in order to prevent the rotation of the key on its own axis.
  • the frame 2 of the comparator is covered by a housing 10 in synthetic material or possibly stamped sheet metal, which covers preferably all the external faces 25 of the frame and also closes the bottom.
  • the case 10 protects the comparator from shocks and infiltration liquid, and give it an attractive design. In order to limit the number parts and water infiltration points, preferably use a case made in one piece.
  • the housing 10 is held on the frame 2 by the sockets 8 and 9 inserted in openings 102, 103 through the housing 10. The comparator is thus assembled in placing the metal frame 2 at the bottom of the housing 10, then passing the sockets 8, 9 through the openings 102, 103 in order to assemble them to the frame.
  • a circular joint 81 is preferably provided to prevent liquid or vapor infiltration between the lower bush 8 and the housing 10; in the same way, a circular joint 91 may be disposed between the upper sleeve 9 and the housing 10. Screws or deformable elements elastically not shown may alternatively be provided in different places of the case in order to prevent for example that the bottom of the housing 10 does not move.
  • the comparator is further provided with a cover 11 mounted on the case 10 and closing the front face.
  • the cover 11 will itself be preferably made of synthetic material and provided with a visible display 4 through an optional glass 100 and welded or glued tightly in an opening through the cover 11.
  • the cover 11 will be example screwed, glued, welded or preferably held by deformation elastic on the housing 10, an O-ring 101 can be provided for prevent infiltration of liquid or liquid vapor.
  • Stubborn not shown is intended to prevent rotation of the cover by report to the housing.
  • the cover 11 is on the contrary rotating relative to the housing 10, in order to be able to restore the horizontality of display 4 even when the comparator is not installed in vertical position.
  • display 4 is preferably connected to the electronic measurement system not represented by a mat flexible cables not shown.
  • the comparator works display 4 are controlled by function keys not shown on the cover and / or on the housing 10, and which allow by example of selecting the unit of measurement or storing positions reference.
  • function keys for example, use function keys in soft elastomer compressed into corresponding openings through the housing 10 and / or the cover 11, so as to guarantee sealing.
  • the junction between the housing and the cover is oblique, so that the case is held by the socket lower and the cover by the upper sleeve (or vice-versa).
  • the comparator preferably further comprises an output serial not shown, for example a connection plug allowing insert an optoelectronic socket.
  • a battery compartment for example for a lithium battery, will be further provided for example in side walls of the comparator, so as to allow replacement of the battery by opening the compartment, without the need to disassemble the plastic housing 10 or even remove the cover 11. Des suitable seals will be provided at the battery compartment and possibly the opto-electronic interface.
  • the comparator can be delivered with a cap not shown and intended to be inserted over the upper sleeve 9 for prevent liquid from entering through this socket.
  • a joint may be provided between the socket 9 and the cap.
  • a non-extendable bellows shown may also be provided over the lower sleeve 8 and key 3 to avoid liquid infiltration through the opening 82.
  • the housing 10 and the various seals described above allow obtain a comparator with a protection index according to the standard DIN40050 for example equal to IP54, i.e. protected against dust (no harmful deposit) and protected against liquid splashes from all directions.
  • a valve allowing air to pass through but retaining liquid vapors and dust can be used to balance internal pressure and external atmospheric pressure.
  • a desiccant capsule can also be placed inside the comparator in order to absorb the liquids entered, for example in the form of steam.
  • type comparators of very different shapes and sizes can be made as part of this invention, as well as other types of devices similar for measuring and comparing lengths, depths, angles, diameters, etc.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • A Measuring Device Byusing Mechanical Method (AREA)
  • Length Measuring Devices With Unspecified Measuring Means (AREA)
  • Length-Measuring Instruments Using Mechanical Means (AREA)
  • Transmission And Conversion Of Sensor Element Output (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de mesure, notamment un comparateur pour la mesure et la comparaison de longueurs ou d'angles.The present invention relates to a measuring device, in particular a comparator for measuring and comparing lengths or angles.

Un exemple de comparateur est représenté sur les figures 1 et 2. Ce comparateur 1 comprend un bâti 2, ici de forme cylindrique, et une touche de palpage 3 dont la pointe 30 est destinée à venir en contact avec l'objet à mesurer ou à vérifier. Un système de mesure mécanique, optoélectronique et/ou électronique permet de déterminer la position longitudinale de la touche de mesure et de l'afficher, par exemple sur un cadran à aiguille ou sur affichage LCD 4. Le comparateur est généralement muni d'une ou plusieurs douilles 8, 9 de dimensions normalisées permettant de le fixer à une machine ou un dispositif externe. Les comparateurs à affichage électronique comme celui représenté sont en outre munis d'un compartiment à pile 6, de boutons de manipulation 5, ainsi qu'éventuellement d'une interface sérielle 7, par exemple une interface optoélectronique.An example of a comparator is shown in Figures 1 and 2. This comparator 1 comprises a frame 2, here of cylindrical shape, and a probing button 3 whose tip 30 is intended to come into contact with the object to be measured or checked. A mechanical measurement system, optoelectronics and / or electronics to determine the position length of the measurement key and display it, for example on a needle dial or LCD display 4. The comparator is generally fitted with one or more sockets 8, 9 of standardized dimensions allowing to fix it to a machine or an external device. Comparators to electronic displays like the one shown are also equipped with a battery compartment 6, manipulation buttons 5, as well that possibly of a serial interface 7, for example an interface optoelectronics.

Dans le comparateur représenté sur les figures 1 et 2, des paliers 80, 90 sont prévus pour permettre un coulissement et un guidage précis de la touche 3. Dans cet exemple, le palier 90 est usiné directement dans la douille supérieure 9 tandis que le palier inférieur 80 est rapporté dans la douille inférieure 8.In the comparator represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, bearings 80, 90 are provided to allow sliding and precise guiding of key 3. In this example, the bearing 90 is machined directly in the upper sleeve 9 while the lower bearing 80 is attached in the lower bush 8.

Le comparateur représenté est muni d'un boítier métallique dont les faces externes ont fait l'objet d'un traitement de surface pour des raisons esthétiques notamment. L'étanchéité n'est que partiellement assurée grâce à un bâti 2 massif et à un fond 26 vissé ou fixé à cran sur ce bâti et protégeant le mécanisme interne du comparateur des projections de liquide. Le dispositif illustré sur les figures 1 et 2 doit donc être maintenu propre pour fonctionner et est donc mal adapté à un fonctionnement dans un environnement humide ou sujet aux projections de poussières, de lubrifiant ou d'huile de coupe par exemple. En particulier, il est important
   de veiller à ce que le système de mesure à l'intérieur du comparateur soit exempt de toute humidité.
The comparator shown is provided with a metal case, the external faces of which have undergone a surface treatment for aesthetic reasons in particular. Sealing is only partially ensured thanks to a solid frame 2 and to a bottom 26 screwed or fixed to the notch on this frame and protecting the internal mechanism of the comparator from liquid projections. The device illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 must therefore be kept clean to operate and is therefore ill-suited to operation in a humid environment or subject to splashes of dust, lubricant or cutting oil for example. In particular, it is important
ensure that the measuring system inside the comparator is free of any humidity.

CH352497 décrit un exemple de comparateur de ce type, incluant des paliers directement rapportés dans le bâti.CH352497 describes an example of a comparator of this type, including bearings directly attached to the frame.

US5189796 décrit un autre exemple de comparateur dans lequel les paliers sont directement usinés dans le bâti.US5189796 describes another example of a comparator in which the bearings are directly machined in the frame.

Un but de la présente invention est de proposer un comparateur amélioré par rapport aux comparateurs de l'art antérieur. Un but de la présente invention est aussi de proposer un comparateur plus économique, plus précis, plus étanche, plus durable et/ou comportant moins de pièces que le comparateur illustré sur les figures 1 et 2.An object of the present invention is to provide a comparator improved compared to the comparators of the prior art. A goal of the present invention is also to propose a more economical comparator, more precise, more waterproof, more durable and / or with fewer parts than the comparator illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.

Selon l'invention, ces buts sont atteints notamment en rapprochant les paliers de passage de la touche l'un de l'autre. L'invention suggère donc d'utiliser un écartement I entre les paliers inférieur au diamètre du boítier. Cette caractéristique permet de réduire la flexion de la tige de touche et donc d'augmenter la précision.According to the invention, these aims are achieved in particular by bringing the key landing stages closer to each other. The invention therefore suggests using a spacing I between the bearings smaller than the diameter of the case. This characteristic makes it possible to reduce the bending of the touch rod and therefore increase accuracy.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, ces buts sont aussi atteints en utilisant des paliers usinés directement dans le bâti du comparateur. Cette caractéristique permet de réduire le nombre de pièces, et donc le coût, et de diminuer la somme des tolérances de fabrication et d'assemblage des différentes pièces, ce qui permet également d'améliorer la précision. Cette caractéristique permet également de réduire la distance I entre les paliers.According to another characteristic of the invention, these aims are also achieved by using bearings machined directly in the frame of the comparator. This characteristic makes it possible to reduce the number of parts, and therefore the cost, and decrease the sum of the manufacturing tolerances and assembly of different parts, which also improves the precision. This characteristic also makes it possible to reduce the distance I between the landings.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, ces buts sont également atteints en utilisant un boítier recouvrant les faces externes du bâti métallique du comparateur. Le boítier permet de résoudre les problèmes d'étanchéité. D'autre part, le boítier permet d'augmenter le diamètre externe du comparateur, et donc d'utiliser un affichage 4 de plus grande taille et plus lisible, sans devoir augmenter la distance I entre les paliers qui est déterminée par le diamètre du bâti métallique. Le boítier est de préférence en matériau synthétique et peut être maintenu par les douilles du comparateur, permettant un montage simple. En le disposant de manière à recouvrir complètement le bâti métallique, il est en outre possible d'économiser le traitement de surface onéreux du bâti, ce qui permet de réduire les coûts sans devoir renoncer à un design attractif.According to another characteristic of the invention, these aims are also achieved by using a housing covering the external faces of the metal frame of the comparator. The case allows to resolve sealing problems. On the other hand, the housing increases the external diameter of the comparator, and therefore to use an additional display 4 large and easier to read, without having to increase the distance I between bearings which is determined by the diameter of the metal frame. The housing is preferably made of synthetic material and can be maintained by comparator sockets, allowing easy mounting. By disposing it so as to completely cover the metal frame, it is further possible to save the expensive surface treatment of the frame, which reduces costs without having to give up an attractive design.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à l'aide de la description d'un exemple de réalisation illustré par les figures annexées qui montrent:

  • La figure 1 qui a déjà été décrite, une vue en perspective d'un comparateur ne présentant pas les avantages de l'invention.
  • La figure 2 qui a déjà été décrite, une vue en coupe d'un comparateur ne présentant pas les avantages de l'invention.
  • La figure 3, une vue en coupe d'un comparateur selon l'invention.
  • La figure 4, une vue en perspective d'une touche adaptée à un comparateur selon l'invention.
  • The invention will be better understood using the description of an exemplary embodiment illustrated by the appended figures which show:
  • Figure 1 which has already been described, a perspective view of a comparator not having the advantages of the invention.
  • Figure 2 which has already been described, a sectional view of a comparator does not have the advantages of the invention.
  • Figure 3, a sectional view of a comparator according to the invention.
  • Figure 4, a perspective view of a key adapted to a comparator according to the invention.
  • La figure 3 Illustre une vue en coupe d'un comparateur selon l'invention. Pour la lisibilité de la figure, certains éléments du comparateur, tels que la touche (illustrée sur la figure 4) ou le système de mesure n'ont pas été représentés. L'invention s'applique en fait à tout type de système de mesure pour comparateur, par exemple à des systèmes purement mécaniques à affichage par aiguille, ou à des systèmes électroniques, par exemple capacitifs, inductifs, optoélectroniques ou magnétorésistifs, permettant d'afficher les résultats par exemple sur un affichage à cristaux liquides 4 ou de les exporter via une interface sérielle, par exemple une interface optoélectronique RS232 (7).Figure 3 illustrates a sectional view of a comparator according to the invention. For the readability of the figure, certain elements of the comparator, such as the key (shown in Figure 4) or the measurement system not been represented. The invention in fact applies to any type of system for comparator, for example to purely systems mechanical with needle display, or electronic systems, by capacitive, inductive, optoelectronic or magnetoresistive examples, allowing to display the results for example on a crystal display liquids 4 or to export them via a serial interface, for example a RS232 optoelectronic interface (7).

    Le comparateur 1 permet de déterminer la position de l'extrémité 30 de la touche de palpage 3 et de comparer cette position avec des positions de référence mémorisées. Il comprend un bâti métallique 2 de forme généralement cylindrique muni dans cet exemple d'un palier supérieur 23 et d'un palier inférieur 24 permettant de faire coulisser longitudinalement la touche 3. Les paliers sont directement usinés dans le bâti 2, afin de réduire le nombre de pièces et la somme des tolérances de fabrication et d'assemblage, et donc d'augmenter la précision tout en réduisant le coût et l'encombrement. Cette disposition permet en outre de réduire la distance 1 entre les paliers 23 et 24, notamment de la rendre bien inférieure au diamètre externe du boítier du comparateur, et ainsi de diminuer la flexion de la touche 3 dans la zone de mesure entre les paliers, ce qui permet d'améliorer la précision.Comparator 1 makes it possible to determine the position of the end 30 of the probe tip 3 and compare this position with stored reference positions. It includes a metal frame 2 of generally cylindrical shape provided in this example with a bearing upper 23 and a lower bearing 24 for sliding longitudinally the key 3. The bearings are directly machined in the frame 2, in order to reduce the number of parts and the sum of the tolerances of manufacturing and assembly, and therefore increase accuracy while reducing cost and size. This provision also allows reduce the distance 1 between the bearings 23 and 24, in particular to make it well smaller than the external diameter of the comparator housing, and so decrease the bending of key 3 in the measurement zone between the bearings, which improves accuracy.

    Selon la variante, on pourra utiliser différents types de paliers 23, 24, notamment des paliers empierrés et/ou munis d'un huilier assurant un coulissement optimal. L'invention s'applique également à des comparateurs dans lesquels la touche ne traverse le bâti qu'en un seul point, et donc munis d'un seul palier. L'invention concerne également les variantes de comparateur moins avantageuses qui sont munies de deux paliers, mais dont un seul est usiné directement dans le bâti 2.Depending on the variant, different types of bearings 23 can be used, 24, in particular stony bearings and / or fitted with an oil tanker ensuring optimal sliding. The invention also applies to comparators in which the key only crosses the frame at a single point, and therefore fitted with a single bearing. The invention also relates to the variants of less advantageous comparator which are provided with two bearings, but only one of which is machined directly in the frame 2.

    Une douille inférieure 8 est liée solidairement au bâti 2, par exemple par vissage, collage ou chassage. Cette douille est optionnelle et pourrait être absente selon la variante réalisée. Dans une variante non illustrée, la douille supérieure 9 pourrait aussi être réalisée en matériau synthétique, par exemple intégré au boítier 10 ou au couvercle 11 décrits plus bas. La douille inférieure 8 est munie d'une ouverture traversante 82 pour le passage de la touche 3, le diamètre de l'ouverture 82 étant légèrement supérieur au diamètre interne du palier inférieur 24. La douille inférieure 8 ne participe ainsi pas au guidage de la touche 3, en sorte que ses contraintes d'usinage et de fixation au bâti 2 sont moins critiques. La douille 8 permet de fixer le comparateur à des dispositifs externes, par exemple à des machines ou le long d'une chaíne de montage.A lower sleeve 8 is integrally connected to the frame 2, by for example by screwing, gluing or chasing. This socket is optional and could be absent depending on the variant carried out. In a variant not illustrated, the upper sleeve 9 could also be made of material synthetic, for example integrated into the housing 10 or the cover 11 described lower. The lower sleeve 8 is provided with a through opening 82 for the passage of the key 3, the diameter of the opening 82 being slightly greater than the internal diameter of the lower bearing 24. The socket lower 8 thus does not participate in guiding the button 3, so that its machining and fixing constraints to the frame 2 are less critical. The socket 8 allows the comparator to be attached to external devices, by example to machines or along an assembly line.

    De la même façon, dans l'exemple illustré, une douille supérieure 9 est liée solidairement au bâti 2, par exemple par vissage, collage ou chassage. Cette douille est optionnelle et pourrait être absente selon la variante réalisée. Dans une variante non illustrée, la douille supérieure 9 pourrait aussi être réalisée en matériau synthétique, par exemple intégré au boítier 10 ou au couvercle 11 décrits plus bas. De la même façon que pour la douille inférieure 8, la douille supérieure 9 est munie d'une ouverture traversante 92 de diamètre légèrement supérieur au diamètre interne du palier 23, et ne participant ainsi pas au guidage de la touche.Similarly, in the example illustrated, an upper sleeve 9 is integrally connected to the frame 2, for example by screwing, gluing or chassage. This socket is optional and may be missing depending on the variant performed. In a variant not illustrated, the upper sleeve 9 could also be made of synthetic material, for example integrated to the housing 10 or to the cover 11 described below. In the same way as for the lower sleeve 8, the upper sleeve 9 is provided with a through opening 92 with a diameter slightly greater than the diameter internal of the bearing 23, and thus not participating in guiding the button.

    La touche 3 est représentée en perspective sur la figure 4. Elle comporte essentiellement un corps cylindrique dont le diamètre est usiné avec précision, afin d'éviter tout jeu latéral dans les paliers 23 et 24. L'extrémité de la touche est munie d'une pointe de touche 30 dont la forme et la dureté peuvent être adaptés à l'utilisation, la pointe de touche 30 pouvant dans une variante préférentielle être dévissée en la saisissant par une portion 31 pour la remplacer par une pointe plus appropriée.The key 3 is shown in perspective in Figure 4. It essentially comprises a cylindrical body whose diameter is machined precisely, in order to avoid any lateral play in the bearings 23 and 24. The end of the key is provided with a touch point 30, the shape and hardness can be adapted to the use, the tip 30 which can in a preferential variant be unscrewed by grasping it by a portion 31 to replace it with a more appropriate tip.

    Dans la variante illustrée, une portion mobile 33 d'un circuit électronique de détermination de position est fixée solidairement à la touche 3, de manière à collaborer avec une partie fixe non représentée et liée au bâti 2 du circuit de mesure. La position relative de la partie mobile 33 et de la partie fixe peut être déterminée et comparée avec une valeur de référence mémorisée, et le résultat affiché sur des moyens d'affichage numériques 4. Le système de mesure peut être de type capacitif, inductif, magnétorésistif ou optoélectronique par exemple, l'invention n'étant pas limitée à ces exemples et pouvant également être appliquée à des comparateurs entièrement mécaniques. Dans le cas d'un système capacitif ou magnétorésistif, la partie fixe sera par exemple constituée par un capteur plan monté à faible distance en regard de la règle coulissante 33 munie d'électrodes capacitives respectivement magnétiques. Dans le cas d'un système électro-optique, le système de mesure comprendra par exemple un émetteur lumineux envoyant à travers une ou plusieurs lentilles un faisceau lumineux à travers la règle graduée 33 ainsi qu'un capteur optique réagissant à la lumière transmise ou réfléchie par la règle.In the illustrated variant, a movable portion 33 of a circuit position determination electronics is securely attached to the key 3, so as to collaborate with a fixed part not shown and linked to frame 2 of the measurement circuit. The relative position of the moving part 33 and the fixed part can be determined and compared with a value of stored reference, and the result displayed on display means digital 4. The measurement system can be capacitive, inductive, magnetoresistive or optoelectronic for example, the invention not being limited to these examples and can also be applied to fully mechanical comparators. In the case of a capacitive system or magnetoresistive, the fixed part will for example consist of a flat sensor mounted at a short distance opposite the sliding rule 33 provided with respectively magnetic capacitive electrodes. In the case of an electro-optical system, the measurement system will include example a light emitter sending through one or more lenses a light beam through the graduated rule 33 as well as a sensor optical system reacting to light transmitted or reflected by the rule.

    La touche 3 est munie d'une portion de guidage 32 collaborant avec une fente de guidage 20 usinée ou rapportée dans la paroi interne du bâti, afin d'empêcher la rotation de la touche sur son propre axe. Une butée 21, dans laquelle peut être vissée une vis 22 vissée par la face avant du comparateur, permet de limiter le déplacement longitudinal de la touche 3 et d'éviter que la règle 33 ne puisse entrer en contact avec le bâti.The button 3 is provided with a guide portion 32 collaborating with a guide slot 20 machined or attached in the internal wall of the frame, in order to prevent the rotation of the key on its own axis. A stop 21, into which can be screwed a screw 22 screwed from the front face of the comparator, makes it possible to limit the longitudinal displacement of the key 3 and to prevent the rule 33 from coming into contact with the frame.

    Le bâti 2 du comparateur est recouvert par un boítier 10 en matériau synthétique ou éventuellement en tôle emboutie, qui recouvre de préférence toutes les faces externes 25 du bâti et ferme en outre le fond. Le boítier 10 permet de protéger le comparateur des chocs et des infiltrations de liquide, et de lui donner un design attrayant. Afin de limiter le nombre de pièces et les points d'infiltration d'eau, on utilisera de préférence un boítier réalisé en une seule pièce. Selon l'invention, le boítier 10 est maintenu sur le bâti 2 par les douilles 8 et 9 insérées dans des ouvertures 102, 103 à travers le boítier 10. Le comparateur est ainsi assemblé en plaçant le bâti métallique 2 au fond du boítier 10, puis en passant la ou les douilles 8, 9 à travers les ouvertures 102, 103 afin de les assembler au bâti. Un joint circulaire 81 est de préférence prévu pour empêcher les infiltrations de liquide ou de vapeur entre la douille inférieure 8 et le boítier 10; de la même façon, un joint circulaire 91 pourra être disposé entre la douille supérieure 9 et le boítier 10. Des vis ou des éléments déformables élastiquement non représentés peuvent dans une variante être prévus en différents endroits du boítier afin d'empêcher par exemple que le fond du boítier 10 ne bouge.The frame 2 of the comparator is covered by a housing 10 in synthetic material or possibly stamped sheet metal, which covers preferably all the external faces 25 of the frame and also closes the bottom. The case 10 protects the comparator from shocks and infiltration liquid, and give it an attractive design. In order to limit the number parts and water infiltration points, preferably use a case made in one piece. According to the invention, the housing 10 is held on the frame 2 by the sockets 8 and 9 inserted in openings 102, 103 through the housing 10. The comparator is thus assembled in placing the metal frame 2 at the bottom of the housing 10, then passing the sockets 8, 9 through the openings 102, 103 in order to assemble them to the frame. A circular joint 81 is preferably provided to prevent liquid or vapor infiltration between the lower bush 8 and the housing 10; in the same way, a circular joint 91 may be disposed between the upper sleeve 9 and the housing 10. Screws or deformable elements elastically not shown may alternatively be provided in different places of the case in order to prevent for example that the bottom of the housing 10 does not move.

    Le comparateur est en outre muni d'un couvercle 11 monté sur le boítier 10 et fermant la face avant. Le couvercle 11 sera lui-même de préférence réalisé en matériau synthétique et muni d'un affichage 4 visible à travers une glace 100 optionnelle et soudée ou collée de manière étanche dans une ouverture au travers du couvercle 11. Le couvercle 11 sera par exemple vissé, collé, soudé ou de préférence maintenu par déformation élastique sur le boítier 10, un joint torique 101 pouvant être prévu pour empêcher toute infiltration de liquide ou de vapeur de liquide. Une butée non représentée est prévue pour empêcher la rotation du couvercle par rapport au boítier. Dans une variante non représentée, le couvercle 11 est au contraire tournant par rapport au boítier 10, afin de pouvoir rétablir l'horizontalité de l'affichage 4 même lorsque le comparateur n'est pas installé en position verticale. Dans ce cas, l'affichage 4 sera de préférence relié au système de mesure électronique non représenté par une natte de câbles flexibles non représentée. Le fonctionnement du comparateur ainsi que l'affichage 4 sont commandés par des touches de fonction non représentées sur le couvercle et/ou sur le boítier 10, et qui permettent par exemple de sélectionner l'unité de mesure ou de mémoriser des positions de référence. On utilisera par exemple des touches de fonction en élastomère mou comprimées dans des ouvertures correspondantes à travers le boítier 10 et/ou le couvercle 11, de façon à garantir l'étanchéité.The comparator is further provided with a cover 11 mounted on the case 10 and closing the front face. The cover 11 will itself be preferably made of synthetic material and provided with a visible display 4 through an optional glass 100 and welded or glued tightly in an opening through the cover 11. The cover 11 will be example screwed, glued, welded or preferably held by deformation elastic on the housing 10, an O-ring 101 can be provided for prevent infiltration of liquid or liquid vapor. Stubborn not shown is intended to prevent rotation of the cover by report to the housing. In a variant not shown, the cover 11 is on the contrary rotating relative to the housing 10, in order to be able to restore the horizontality of display 4 even when the comparator is not installed in vertical position. In this case, display 4 is preferably connected to the electronic measurement system not represented by a mat flexible cables not shown. How the comparator works display 4 are controlled by function keys not shown on the cover and / or on the housing 10, and which allow by example of selecting the unit of measurement or storing positions reference. For example, use function keys in soft elastomer compressed into corresponding openings through the housing 10 and / or the cover 11, so as to guarantee sealing.

    Dans une variante non représentée, la jonction entre le boítier et le couvercle est oblique, en sorte que le boítier est maintenu par la douille inférieure et le couvercle par la douille supérieure (ou vice-versa).In a variant not shown, the junction between the housing and the cover is oblique, so that the case is held by the socket lower and the cover by the upper sleeve (or vice-versa).

    Le comparateur comprend en outre de préférence une sortie sérielle non représentée, par exemple une fiche de connexion permettant d'insérer une prise optoélectronique. Un compartiment pour pile, par exemple pour une pile au lithium, sera en outre prévu par exemple dans les parois latérales du comparateur, de manière à permettre un remplacement de la pile en ouvrant le compartiment, sans qu'il soit nécessaire de démonter le boítier plastique 10 ni même de retirer le couvercle 11. Des joints appropriés seront prévus au niveau du compartiment à pile et éventuellement de l'interface opto-électronique.The comparator preferably further comprises an output serial not shown, for example a connection plug allowing insert an optoelectronic socket. A battery compartment, for example for a lithium battery, will be further provided for example in side walls of the comparator, so as to allow replacement of the battery by opening the compartment, without the need to disassemble the plastic housing 10 or even remove the cover 11. Des suitable seals will be provided at the battery compartment and possibly the opto-electronic interface.

    Le comparateur pourra être livré avec un capuchon non représenté et destiné à être inséré par-dessus la douille supérieur 9 pour empêcher les infiltrations de liquide à travers cette douille. Un joint pourra être prévu entre la douille 9 et le capuchon. Un soufflet extensible non représenté pourra également être prévu par dessus la douille inférieure 8 et la touche 3 pour éviter les infiltrations de liquide par l'owerture 82.The comparator can be delivered with a cap not shown and intended to be inserted over the upper sleeve 9 for prevent liquid from entering through this socket. A joint may be provided between the socket 9 and the cap. A non-extendable bellows shown may also be provided over the lower sleeve 8 and key 3 to avoid liquid infiltration through the opening 82.

    Le boítier 10 et les différents joints décrits ci-dessus permettent d'obtenir un comparateur avec un indice de protection selon la norme DIN40050 par exemple égal à IP54, c'est-à-dire protégé contre les poussières (pas de dépôt nuisible) et protégé contre les projections de liquide provenant de toutes les directions. D'autres moyens pourront être imaginés dans le cadre de cette invention pour améliorer encore l'étanchéité du volume interne du comparateur. Par exemple, une valve laissant passer l'air mais retenant les vapeurs de liquide et la poussière peut être utilisée pour équilibrer la pression interne et la pression atmosphérique externe. Une capsule de produit dessicant peut également être disposée à l'intérieur du comparateur afin d'absorber les liquides entrés par exemple sous forme de vapeur.The housing 10 and the various seals described above allow obtain a comparator with a protection index according to the standard DIN40050 for example equal to IP54, i.e. protected against dust (no harmful deposit) and protected against liquid splashes from all directions. Other means could be imagined in the context of this invention to further improve the sealing of the internal volume of the comparator. For example, a valve allowing air to pass through but retaining liquid vapors and dust can be used to balance internal pressure and external atmospheric pressure. A desiccant capsule can also be placed inside the comparator in order to absorb the liquids entered, for example in the form of steam.

    L'homme du métier comprendra que des comparateurs de types, de forme et de dimensions très divers peuvent être réalisés dans le cadre de cette invention, ainsi que d'autres types de dispositifs similaires pour la mesure et la comparaison de longueurs, de profondeurs, d'angles, de diamètres, etc..Those skilled in the art will understand that type comparators, of very different shapes and sizes can be made as part of this invention, as well as other types of devices similar for measuring and comparing lengths, depths, angles, diameters, etc.

    Claims (14)

    1. Dial indicator for measuring and comparing linear or angular dimensions, comprising:
      a metallic casing (2),
      at least one bearing (23, 24) intended to accommodate a sensing probe (3) going through said casing (2),
      at least one socket (8, 9) integral with the casing (2),
      a measuring system comprising a mobile portion (33) driven by said sensor probe and a fixed portion integral with the casing, characterized by
      a housing (10) covering the outer sides (25) of said casing (2) and held by said at least one socket (8, 9).
    2. Dial indicator according to the preceding claim, wherein said outer sides (25) of the casing (2) are entirely covered by said housing (10).
    3. Dial indicator according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a gasket (81, 91) is provided between said housing (10) and said at least one socket (8, 9).
    4. Dial indicator according to one of the preceding claims, fitted further with a cover (11) fastened to said housing (10).
    5. Dial indicator according to the preceding claim, a gasket (101) being provided between said housing (10) and said cover (11).
    6. Dial indicator according to one of the claims 4 or 5, said cover (11) bearing a display (4) and able to pivot in relation to said casing (2).
    7. Dial indicator according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a lower socket (8) and an upper socket (9), both integral with the casing (2), said housing (10) being held by both sockets (8, 9).
    8. Dial indicator according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising fastening screws of said housing onto said casing.
    9. Dial indicator according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one socket (8, 9) has been made integral with said casing (2) by passing through an opening (102, 103) of said housing (10) after the latter has been mounted onto the casing (2).
    10. Dial indicator according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one bearing (23, 24) is machined or fastened directly into the casing (2).
    11. Dial indicator according to claim 10, comprising a lower bearing (24) and an upper bearing (23), both being worked or fastened directly into the casing (2).
    12. Dial indicator according to the preceding claim, wherein the distance (I) between the lower bearing (24) and the upper bearing (23) is less than the inner diameter of said housing (10).
    13. Dial indicator according to the preceding claim, comprising a lower socket (8) and an upper socket (9), both integral with the casing (2).
    14. Dial indicator according to the preceding claim, wherein the distance (I) between the lower bearing (24) and the upper bearing (23) is less than the distance between said lower socket (8) and said upper socket (9).
    EP99810966A 1999-10-22 1999-10-22 Linear or angular displacement measuring device Expired - Lifetime EP1094294B1 (en)

    Priority Applications (6)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    EP99810966A EP1094294B1 (en) 1999-10-22 1999-10-22 Linear or angular displacement measuring device
    DE69904332T DE69904332T2 (en) 1999-10-22 1999-10-22 Device for measuring linear or angular displacement
    CNB001268244A CN1175243C (en) 1999-10-22 2000-07-15 Displacement measuring device
    JP2000220793A JP3524474B2 (en) 1999-10-22 2000-07-21 Mobile measuring device
    US09/659,804 US6513262B1 (en) 1999-10-22 2000-09-11 Displacement measuring device
    HK02100360.0A HK1038789B (en) 1999-10-22 2002-01-16 Displacement measuring device

    Applications Claiming Priority (1)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    EP99810966A EP1094294B1 (en) 1999-10-22 1999-10-22 Linear or angular displacement measuring device

    Publications (2)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP1094294A1 EP1094294A1 (en) 2001-04-25
    EP1094294B1 true EP1094294B1 (en) 2002-12-04

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    Family Applications (1)

    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP99810966A Expired - Lifetime EP1094294B1 (en) 1999-10-22 1999-10-22 Linear or angular displacement measuring device

    Country Status (6)

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    US (1) US6513262B1 (en)
    EP (1) EP1094294B1 (en)
    JP (1) JP3524474B2 (en)
    CN (1) CN1175243C (en)
    DE (1) DE69904332T2 (en)
    HK (1) HK1038789B (en)

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    JP5089020B2 (en) * 2005-01-19 2012-12-05 創世理工株式会社 Semiconductor electronic devices fabricated on a substrate
    US20060271420A1 (en) * 2005-05-27 2006-11-30 Peter Anselmann System and method for performing capacity checks and resource scheduling within a supply chain management system
    JP4810168B2 (en) * 2005-09-12 2011-11-09 株式会社ミツトヨ Digital display measuring instrument
    JP5038691B2 (en) * 2006-11-28 2012-10-03 株式会社ミツトヨ How to use digital indicators and digital indicators
    EP2650638B1 (en) 2012-04-12 2014-11-19 Tesa Sa Portable instrument for measuring dimensions
    US10495446B2 (en) * 2015-06-29 2019-12-03 Kla-Tencor Corporation Methods and apparatus for measuring height on a semiconductor wafer
    CN105588607B (en) * 2015-12-10 2017-11-14 蓝正飞 Photoelectric sensor
    CN108311953A (en) * 2018-03-28 2018-07-24 上海瓦姆石油天然气管业有限公司 A kind of high-precision dial gauge for numerical control machining center
    CN109029230B (en) * 2018-06-21 2021-02-26 清华大学 Contact type displacement sensor measuring device and measuring circuit
    JP7568472B2 (en) * 2020-10-21 2024-10-16 株式会社ミツトヨ Panel module unit

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    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    JP3524474B2 (en) 2004-05-10
    DE69904332D1 (en) 2003-01-16
    DE69904332T2 (en) 2003-10-02
    US6513262B1 (en) 2003-02-04
    JP2001124539A (en) 2001-05-11
    HK1038789B (en) 2005-05-27
    EP1094294A1 (en) 2001-04-25
    HK1038789A1 (en) 2002-03-28
    CN1305087A (en) 2001-07-25
    CN1175243C (en) 2004-11-10

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